SAHBA Home Hints
January 4, 2009
Revitalizing Your Home after the Holiday Season
Each year, millions of people decide to remodel their home. While the reasons vary, maybe adding space; improving energy efficiency; upgrading counters, cabinets, and appliances; or even increasing the resale value of their home there are several reasons some homeowners choose to remodel.
The first step is to develop a plan. Decide what needs to be done and prioritize those items. Second, homeowners should figure out how much money they have to spend on remodeling or updating.
Once homeowners have decided what needs to be done and how much money will need to be invested, they should decide how they are going to carry out their plan.
The best way to ensure the project becomes a reality is through the hard work of a professional remodeler.
“More than 30 percent of all jobs remodelers perform come from failed do-it-yourselfers,” said Greg Miedema of Dakota Builders. “By hiring a professional remodeler, the homeowner will be sure that the job is done right the first time, building codes and regulations are followed, and the work is guaranteed through a workmanship warranty.”
Once a remodeler has been chosen, follow these tips to make sure the project runs smoothly.
“Make sure to establish good two-way communication with the remodeler, it is important to be able to trust him,” Miedema, a SAHBA member said. “A well-written contract also is important in order to make sure that all of the bases are covered.”
In order to avoid conflicts later in the project, agree on a schedule for the project and request a written proposal to ensure there is no miscommunication.
“Remember Greg's Rules of Contracting: If it's not in writing, it didn't happen and doesn't count,” Miedema said.
Also, ask the remodeler for a Lien Waver when the project is done. This will protect the homeowner and verify that everyone has been paid.
“The last thing to remember is to be flexible,” Miedema said. “Remodeling is an interruption of normal life. It is important to be able to handle the unexpected and go with the flow.”
To find a licensed remodeler check out the Find A Builder section of the SAHBA website: www.sahba.org.
SAHBA represents about 720 member businesses serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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